Sponsored by Illinois Secretary of State and State Librarian, Jesse White, and the Illinois Center for the Book, Family Reading Night is an annual statewide event held the third Thursday in November to encourage families to spend quality time reading together. The next official Family Reading Night is scheduled for November 16, 2017.

Libraries across the region are joining in on the celebration. throughout the week of November 13th-17th. Here are some of the Family Reading Nights scheduled throughout southern Illinois.

November 13th

Carterville

5:30pm- 6:30 pm Anne West District LibraryMs. Jessica will be reading her favorite "Pete the Cat" stories. The Carterville Lions Club will be providing a "Pete the Cat" book to the first 30 children in attendance, working on a "Pete the Cat" craft, and having snacks! This event is for families with children in pre-k through 2nd grade. This event is sponsored by the Carterville Lions Club. *Free books will be provided to the first 30 children in attendance. * Attendance at children's programs & activities constitutes consent to be photographed for use in library publicity & publications.* Children under the age of eight must be supervised by a parent or guardian.

Harrisburg

​Come to the Harrisburg District Library on Monday, November 13th, from 6:30 - 7:30 PM for some fun. Plus, you can wear pajamas to stay extra comfy!We will feature stories, songs, snacks, and guest readers.The best part is that every child in attendance will go home with a book to enjoy later with family. Families with children of all ages are welcome, and we do encourage parents to attend with children under the age of 7.

November 16th

Benton

​ 6:00pm- 7:00pmCome to the library for a free book and snacks. This is an annual event where we celebrate reading as a family. Enter your child into a drawing for a chance to win an Amazon Fire tablet.

Eldorado

5:30pm-6:00pmA fun evening of reading and crafts for families with preschool children.

​Carbondale Family reading Night with Pinkalicious

6:00 pm• Share reading time together. • Bring your family to the library to hear stories about Pinkalicious & have your photo taken with her. • Prizes, refreshments and more.

DuQuoin

6:00pm-7:00pmJoin us for an evening of story times, carnival games, and fun. "If You Ever Want to Bring a Circus to the Library, Don't."